Report: Will the 2019 Mazda MX-5 pack more power?

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Mazda reportedly giving the MX-5 an increase in power

by Jose Altoveros

March 05, 2018 11:58

Back in 2015, Mazda introduced the 4th generation MX-5. It had the simple sports car recipe of lightweight and great handling coupled with a 2.0-liter four cylinder engine that produced 155 PS. While most have praised it for it's handling, some still criticized the roadster for its lack of power. It seems as though Mazda have listened and could be releasing a more powerful version with the 2019 model year.

According to a report by Road and Track, they have found a document filed by Mazda to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) hinting a power bump. The file shows the 2019 model year Mazda MX-5 being offered with the same trim options and 2.0-liter engine. However, if the documents are to be believed, power rating has now been changed from 155 PS to 181 PS.

The documents do not show how Mazda extracted more power from the 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G engine. A turbocharger is unlikely while the document shows that the 2019 MX-5 will not be electrified. Currently, the most powerful variant of the engine produces only 162 PS in the Mazda 3. Having a 16 PS increase in power is also no easy task on a naturally aspirated motor especially for a manufacturer who's vehicles have to meet emissions regulations.

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For now, we can only speculate as to whether the 2019 MX-5 will really put out more power. Should Mazda really have increased power, it will surely make the MX-5 an even more capable machine both on track and on the road. According to the report, the power boost will apply to both the soft-top and the RF hardtop.